Hey Everyone. Finally got out the Chrono and did some test. One test was my second set of target ammo. The first set did not get the chrono as I just wanted to see if I had it right. All went well. I started low(learned this from reloading rifle ammo) and went midrange. Today, the chrono came out. First test was the Sig Elite Performance TMJ 180gr I pick up at Academy for $25 for a box of 50. It tested to the velocity on the box of 1250 avg. I then tested my midrange (safe) round of 180gr Speer TMJ and average 1150 fps with 10.4gr of BlueDot. No pressure signs on the primers(CCI 300 LP - still rounded and no crater) or brass(New Starline),from what I can tell anyway. I want to see how close I can come, or pass, the Sig Elite. I do believe I have room to go up in charge weight and any advice will be greatly appreciated.
Oh, there was a third test of just a couple of Hunters Supply Hard Cast 180gr. They were at the same level as the Speer.
Sorry, no accuracy test yet. I know it goes hand in hand, but have to get used to reloading pistol.
I do have some Sierra Sports Master 165gr on the way and any advice on alternate powders and starting charges will be appreciated, also. I did find a recipe on the Alliant site for BlueDot with a 165gr, so I will probably start a little low from that.
Oh. RIA Ultra 10mm FS HC 5".
KenCar, thanks for your range report! Yes the Sig did meet their box in my test early on, they were using BE-86 powder when I looked into them!
The 10.4 grains of Blue Dot can be a very accurate load with 170-180 grain bullets...Has been one of my favorite target loads since 1990 where I was loading it before there was book data.
And yes, if slow and careful , you can go higher than 10.4 gr of Blue Dot... ( tho 10.4 is the sweet spot for accuracy )
Some of the older books show 11gr max with a 180 head. I've used these in a G20/3 without issue but work up slow as each gun if diff.
BTW, Used 10.4 of BD with a 200XTP and it worked fine... but work up here too.
For sure, 10.4 gr of Blue Dot is absolutely the sweet spot for accuracy, by far my favorite 180gr load.
Ken
Thanks for the feedback everyone! :D I have to load up quite a few more. I have the 165 pills coming soon and looking forward to see how they load up. But, may have to wait until I make it back on a run to Colorado to deliver some custom cabinets and furniture to a retired Warrant who is a good friend of mine. Bringing toys to play with if the weather permits.